Thrive 3D
Develops custom 3D-printed orthopedic braces (AFOs) using PA-12 nylon via FDM technology, combined with a proprietary 3D scanning app for automated patient-specific design, reducing fitting time from weeks to days.
- CEO / Founder
- Joseph DeHeer
- Team Size
- 1-10
- Stage
- Active
Technology & Products
Key Products
Balance 3D+ Brace; PTTD 3D+ Brace; F3 Anterior AFO; X-Glide Carbon Fiber Insoles; Thrive 3D Scanning App
Technological Advantage
VERIFIED: Automated scan-to-print workflow cuts design time by 80% (20+ years aerospace engineering team); CLAIMED: PA-12 material provides superior impact strength vs. standard polymers; DEFENSIBLE: Software IP and clinical workflow integration create switching costs.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Reduces orthopedic brace production lead time from traditional 4-6 weeks to 3-5 days by automating scan-to-print workflow, while offering a 2-year warranty (double industry standard) and 30% lower cost than custom carbon fiber alternatives.
How They Differentiate
vs. Allumin8: Focuses on braces (AFOs) not implants, with 2x longer warranty (2 years vs. 1 year); vs. Fited: Uses proprietary scanning app vs. ML algorithm, with in-house US manufacturing vs. outsourced; vs. Carbon: Uses lower-cost FDM/PA-12 vs. high-end DLS/resins, targeting orthotics not surgical guides.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Medical professionals (orthotists, physical therapists) and patients requiring custom ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) for conditions like foot drop, cerebral palsy, or sports injuries.
Industry Verticals
Medical Devices; Orthopedics
Competitors
Allumin8 (3D-printed orthopedic implants); Fited (3D-printed orthotics via ML design); Carbon (3D-printed medical devices using DLS technology)
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Revenue <$5 Million[2]
Major Milestones
2017: Founded in Carmel, Indiana; 2025: Distribution partnership with OrthoPediatrics; Launched Thrive 3D scanning app on iPad App Store
Notable Customers
OrthoPediatrics (distribution partner for pediatric orthotic products including Balance 3D+ Brace, Pediatric X-Glide, and carbon fiber insoles)[1][4][5]